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Holiday weight gain may seem inevitable, however there are ways you can win the battle of the bulge this season. There’s no need to pack on extra pound says Jamie Hernandez, M.A, M.A, certified health coach & hypnotherapist at The Becoming Center.

Here are Jamie’s Five Tips for Eating Healthy During the Holidays.

1 – Hydrate – Drink lots of water. Drinking water before meals can fill the stomach so you don’t eat as much. Staying hydrated also helps you to feel healthy and energetic!

2 – Move – Plan time for exercise. Stick to your current exercise routine, or if you don’t have one, now is the time to start. Even if it means taking a walk with family after a meal, or going to the gym with your spouse. Get moving!

3 – Slow Down – Eat slowly, chew thoroughly. Chewing your food not only helps to slow down your eating, but it also releases digestive enzymes that allow you to digest your food better and absorb more of the nutrition. By eating slower, you can pay attention to how you are feeling and will be able to stop when you are actually full. A good rule of thumb is to put down you fork for 30-60 seconds in between each bite. This also allows you to engage in conversation with your loved ones.

4 – Portions – Use a smaller plate, and fill it up with salad and vegetables first. If cakes, pies and cookies are your downfall, offer to share a slice with someone when deserts are served.

5 – Sleep – Get appropriate sleep. The holidays can be a busy time and you may get less sleep or less productive sleep if you are feeling stressed. When you are tired, you tend to go for fatty, calorie-laden comfort foods. Sticking to a good sleep schedule, and doing something to calm your mind before you go to sleep, like meditation, will help you to make healthier food choices the next day.